Chamba State


Chamba State was one of the oldest princely states in present-day Republic of India, having been founded during the late 6th century. It was part of the States of the Punjab Hills of the Punjab Province of British India from 1859–1947. Its last ruler signed the accession to the Indian Union of 15 April 1948.

Geography

Chamba is situated in the bosom of the Himalaya Mountains, and its boundaries are on the northwest, west, and northeast Kashmir; on the east, Lahaul; and on the southeast and south, the districts of Kangra and Gurdaspur.
The Ravi River flows through this district, and many hydroelectric generating stations have been developed here.

History

According to tradition, the predecessor state was founded around 550 AD. In 900, the capital was moved to Chamba. The rulers of Chamba State patronized artists of the Pahari painting style. Between 1809 and 1846 Chamba was tributary to Jammu. In 1821, Chamba annexed Bhadrawah State. On 9 Mar 1846, Chamba State became a British protectorate.

Rulers

The rulers of Chamba princely state belonged to the Mushana Rajput Dynasty.

Rajas